How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
You get to Alcatraz by being the worst of the worst. Unless you're me. I came here because my mother said I had to. […]
All so my sister can go to the Esther P. Marinoff School. (1.3-4)
Right from the beginning, it's clear this is a book about family. Which Moose might not think is such a great thing—at first, anyway. He tells us that the only reason he's on Alcatraz (and not a criminal) is because of his family. More specifically: his sister. This job on Alcatraz pays enough so they can afford to send Natalie to a place that will help her.
Quote #2
I get a sinking feeling in my gut. There were 237 electricians who applied for the job my dad got. If it were me, I'd have kept my mouth shut about having a daughter like Natalie. (3.81)
Moose is self conscious about his sister—he's worried that people will judge their whole family because Natalie is different. Maybe it's deeper than that, though. Perhaps he's more worried that the rest of the world doesn't love her like his family does.
Quote #3
It's only a half-day at school, which I'm hoping my mom doesn't know so she won't wonder why I'm late. (8.2)
Family is great, but it can be a bit of a burden from time to time, and Moose needs a break from family life to play baseball with his friends. But he knows that his mom always needs his help at home. If she finds out that he hung out after school rather than coming home early, Moose is worried that she'll be mad.